A powerful windstorm accompanied by rainfall has destroyed at least 300 houses and damaged property worth millions of naira in several communities across Katsina State, leaving many residents homeless.
The storm, which struck on Wednesday evening shortly after Asr prayers, lasted for about 15 minutes but caused widespread devastation.
Witnesses reported scenes of rooftops and rafters flying through the air as structures gave way to the force of the wind.
Among the affected communities are Sabuwar Unguwar Modoji Gabas, Shinkafi, Kukar-Gesa, Ambassador Quarters, and parts of Jibia Local Government Area.
Many victims, including a newly married couple, are now calling on the Katsina State Government and kind-hearted individuals for urgent assistance, citing the ongoing economic hardship.
Maryam Muhammad, one of the victims, recounted her ordeal:
“During the storm, I was inside my room when it collapsed on me. I sustained injuries to my leg and arm. Thank God my children were at Islamiyya school at the time. I built that room using everything I had. We desperately need both divine and government intervention.”;;
Another victim, Mubarak Rabi’u, expressed similar sentiments,“We’ve accepted this tragedy as God’s will, but we need help. As I speak, we have no idea where our families will go. We are struggling to survive.”;;
The Ward Head of Sabuwar Unguwar Modoji Gabas, Aminu Jafaru, urged the Katsina State Government and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to visit the affected areas and assess the scale of destruction.
“It was a terrifying windstorm that destroyed dozens of homes within minutes. Without government support, many residents will remain displaced. We appeal to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to send a delegation immediately to evaluate the situation and assist those in need,”;; he pleaded.
